Why Was a New Zealand Dad Shot Dead by Police After Years on the Run with His Kids?

In a tragic conclusion to a long and complicated case, Tom Phillips, a father who had been on the run with his three children in New Zealand's wilderness for nearly four years, was shot dead by police during a confrontation. His disappearance with the children captured the nation's attention, and his death has raised serious concerns about their future wellbeing.

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Tom Phillips was shot dead by police during a chase in Piopio, New Zealand.
• The incident followed a reported robbery, where Phillips was spotted with one of his children.
• All three children were eventually located unharmed at a campsite in dense bush.
• Phillips had evaded capture since 2021, leading to a nationwide search.
• The children's mother expressed relief that the ordeal was over but sadness over the circumstances.

The Background of a Disturbing Case

The story of Tom Phillips and his children began in late 2021 when he disappeared after losing legal custody. Following a court appearance he failed to attend in 2022, he became a fugitive. The authorities believed he took his children, aged between 8 and 12, into the wilderness to evade capture.

Phillips was known to have significant survival skills, having lived in the rugged Marokopa area of Waikato, which is characterised by harsh landscapes including dense bush and a rugged coastline. These skills allowed him to build shelters and forage for food, making it difficult for police to locate him over the years.

A Nationwide Search and Multiple Sightings

Despite an extensive nationwide search, Phillips managed to evade capture for nearly four years. There were numerous sightings reported by locals, often detailing his encounters with the children. Some sightings indicated that Phillips was becoming increasingly desperate for resources, as reports of break-ins at local stores emerged.

In October 2022, a group of teenagers spotted Phillips and his children in the bush. They filmed the encounter, noting that the children were wearing camouflage and carrying packs. When asked if anyone knew they were there, one child reportedly replied, "only you". Such interactions raised alarm bells about their safety and wellbeing.

Legal Troubles and Allegations

In addition to his disappearance, Phillips faced serious criminal allegations. A warrant for his arrest was issued in connection with a bank robbery in Te Kuiti, and police indicated he may have had an accomplice during that incident. This raised questions about whether he received assistance from the close-knit community in Marokopa, where he was known and often described as a skilled bushman.

The Fatal Confrontation

The incident that led to Phillips's death unfolded on Monday at approximately 02:30 BST. Police were responding to a reported robbery at a commercial property when they spotted Phillips and one of his children riding a quad bike. A chase ensued, and police deployed road spikes in an attempt to stop them.

After hitting the spikes, the quad bike veered off-road. Police approached the vehicle and were met with gunfire. Tragically, the first officer on the scene sustained a gunshot wound to the head and is currently in a serious condition. In the ensuing gunfire, Phillips was shot and killed, with police confident it was him despite waiting for formal identification.

Aftermath and the Children’s Safety

Later that day, the other two children were located at a remote campsite in the bush, unharmed. The child who was with Phillips provided vital information that assisted the police in locating his siblings. Authorities have not confirmed whether the children were informed about their father's death, but they have notified their mother, known only as Cat, who expressed a mix of relief and sadness over the events.

Cat stated she had missed her children every day during their time in hiding and was "deeply relieved" that the ordeal had come to an end. Yet, she also expressed sorrow over the tragic way in which it concluded. The police have not disclosed who will take care of the children moving forward, but their mother is expected to be involved in their care.

Community Reactions

The incident has left the local community and the nation grappling with its implications. New Zealand’s Prime Minister Chris Luxon called the situation "sad and absolutely tragic," reflecting a sentiment echoed by many citizens. The wellbeing of Phillips's children remains a primary concern, with local residents expressing hope for a more positive outcome for the kids.

What Happens Next?

As New Zealand processes this tragic event, questions linger about the future for Phillips's children. With their father deceased and their mother having been absent during their time in the wilderness, the path ahead may be complicated. Authorities will need to ensure they receive the necessary support to cope with their traumatic experience.

As the investigation continues, many are left reflecting on the events that unfolded. Was there a way for Phillips to have received help without this tragic outcome? And how will the children come to terms with their father's actions and death? The answers to these questions remain to be seen.

FAQs

Why did Tom Phillips go on the run with his children?

Tom Phillips reportedly went on the run to evade police after losing legal custody of his children. He failed to appear in court in 2022, prompting a nationwide search for him and the kids.

What happened during the police confrontation?

During a police chase responding to a robbery report, Phillips and one of his children were pursued. After hitting road spikes, they were met with gunfire when police approached, resulting in Phillips being shot dead.

How are the children doing after the incident?

All three children were found unharmed at a campsite later that day. Authorities have not confirmed their future care arrangements, but their mother has expressed relief that they are safe.

What is the community's response to Phillips's death?

The local community and New Zealand as a whole are saddened by the tragic outcome. Many residents have expressed concern for the children's wellbeing and hoped for a happier resolution.

What support will the children receive moving forward?

The police have stated that the children's safety is a priority, and efforts will be made to ensure they receive the necessary support to cope with this traumatic experience.